Our Curriculum
Ofsted noted that “teaching is outstanding and exciting.
Staff challenge children’s thinking skills at every opportunity”.
Our curriculum is underpinned by the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum
The framework ensures we adhere to legal requirements concerning, learning and
development, assessment of each child and the safeguarding & welfare of all in our community.
Movement Play
We are proud to work in close partnership with Penny Greenland, founder of the National Charity Jabadao. Developmental movement play (DMP) is an integral part of the curriculum we offer, acknowledging
the body as a child’s first home & movement as a child’s first language.
DMP is a child led, play based approach which fits beautifully with our ethos
that children are experts in their own discovery & learning. Children engage in
spontaneous, full bodied movement to get exactly what their bodies need & love.
The research bit….
Studies into body & brain function show that physical movement makes especially strong connections in the brain and nervous system. These connections prompt a healthy foundation for learning and wellbeing.
The wholeness of this approach supports the complex development of the brain. This is driven from the body not the mind which makes perfect sense as we know that young children are wired to wriggle & jiggle.
The Child’s Curriculum
We embrace the exploration of different festivals, celebrations & topics bringing
learning to life with ‘hands on’ interactions, special visitors and trips into the community.
Children are encouraged to be independent in their learning and parents are valued as 1st educators, sharing information on a regular basis to inform understanding and planning. Learning is challenging & meaningful.
The playroom & garden are prepared for each session with care & thought. Children are free to develop
their own interests at a pace that suits them. The environment provides irresistible opportunities
for discovery and our dedicated team work sensitively to help inspire a love for learning.
Open sessions, trips and fundraising events are a valued opportunity to welcome families to share in their child’s experience at Heathlands. This is fundamental to our belief that community is at the heart of our setting.
